UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador Orlando Bloom made his first visit to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) this week, amidst escalating violence and mass displacement in the eastern region leading to an increase in grave violations against children.
“The magnitude of the conflict in eastern DRC, the extreme level of violence, and the devastating impact on the children and women I met is heartbreaking,” expressed Bloom. “No child should endure the dire conditions I witnessed in displacement camps – separated from family, hungry, unable to attend school, and constantly at risk of abuse, violence, and exploitation.”
During his five-day visit, Bloom toured Goma in North Kivu and Bukavu in South Kivu, where he interacted with children and women to understand the significant risks they face on a daily basis, including abduction, rape, violence, exploitation by armed groups, and death.
The United Nations has confirmed over 1,000 grave violations against children in the eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu in the first quarter of this year. This represents a 30% increase compared to the previous quarter in 2023, with recruitment and use of children being the most prevalent violation. In April 2024, over 450 grave violations against children were documented in the east alone.
UNICEF DRC Representative Grant Leaity emphasized, “It’s a heartbreaking reality that children in the conflict are subject to abduction, recruitment by armed groups, violence, and abuse. We urge all parties to work towards peace and end the violations against children, holding perpetrators accountable.”
While in the region, Bloom visited a UNICEF-supported child-friendly space in the Bushagara displacement site near Goma, providing a safe environment for structured play, recreation, psychosocial support, and identification of vulnerable children for necessary care services.
Gender-based violence against women and children has remained high in recent years and escalated in 2024, with survivors often hesitant to come forward due to stigma and fear. Bloom visited Panzi Hospital and Panzi Foundation in South Kivu to engage with survivors and caregivers, acknowledging the crucial support and assistance they receive.
Amidst the ongoing crisis in eastern DRC, where millions require urgent humanitarian aid, UNICEF is delivering essential services like education, health, nutrition, water and sanitation, and protection. However, UNICEF’s humanitarian appeal for US$804.3 million remains largely unfunded.
“The needs of children and women in DRC’s displacement camps are immense, and the response falls short. Urgent action is needed to ensure their safety and well-being,” urged Bloom.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).